Hawks’ No. 1 draft plan unclear among post-lottery rivals

The Atlanta Hawks are keeping the rest of the NBA on their toes.

“There’s not much consensus among teams on what the Hawks will do at the top,” Sam Vecenie of The Athletic wrote after Atlanta won the 2024 NBA Draft lottery on Sunday. given (Alex) Sarr here because they finished in the bottom four on defense last season and Clint Capela is entering the final year of his contract at least makes the most sense.”

Vecenie is not the only one who sees Sarr going No. 1 in the June 26-27 draft.

Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman projected the big man as the No. 1 pick in his most recent mock draft, although it’s worth noting that was before Atlanta landed that selection.

“While the 7’1” Frenchman’s main appeal revolves around his switchable defense and shot blocking, the ability to handle in the open court, shoot from distance and knock down pull-ups and fallaways separates him from the other rim protectors,” Wasserman wrote.

This type of defense would be important for the Hawks and provide them with a safety net in front of the rim when opposing ball carriers get past Trae Young.

If the Hawks choose not to trade Young this offseason, Sarr should be a quality pick-and-pop partner upon arrival given his shooting touch.

Atlanta has more than a month to decide which direction it will take in the draft. Sarr makes sense on paper given his position and the defense he will provide, but the Eastern Conference club could consider making a move in the backcourt if they decide to move on from Young.

Given the overall uncertainty surrounding the team, all eyes will surely be on the Hawks.